A sudden drop in temperature during a winter storm is a big problem for home plumbing systems. This is because frozen pipes can quickly cause significant water damage. Fortunately, you can take steps to prepare your home before the first frost sets in.
Saffer Plumbing is here to guide you through some of the most effective prevention methods, so you can stay safe and cozy all winter long. We’re also standing by with our full spectrum of plumbing services, including piping solutions, sewer line repair, water line repair, and more. If you have questions about safeguarding your space or would like to book an appointment, reach out to our friendly team!
Why Pipes & Faucets Freeze
When water gets cold enough, its molecules expand as they form into ice. This expansion can happen inside your pipes during the winter. The problem is that these pipes are not built to stretch. As the ice grows, it creates immense pressure within the water supply line. It’s this internal pressure, not the ice itself, that ultimately causes a pipe to crack and burst. Pipes in unheated areas like a basement, attic, or garage are particularly vulnerable to freezing when the outside weather turns cold.
What Are the Dangers of Frozen Pipes & Faucets?
The consequences of a frozen pipe can be severe, impacting both your home and your peace of mind. In fact, the moment the ice inside begins to thaw, water will start pouring from any crack or split, leading to a serious situation that requires an expert plumber. Common problems as a result of a frozen pipe or faucet include:
- Catastrophic Water Damage: A burst pipe can release gallons of water per hour, causing a flood that can ruin floors, drywall, furniture, and personal belongings.
- Structural Harm: Prolonged exposure to water can weaken your home’s foundation, warp wooden structures, and create lasting issues that are costly to repair.
- Mold Growth: Lingering moisture in walls and floors creates the perfect environment for mold and mildew, which can pose health risks and are difficult to remove.
- Loss of Water Access: A frozen blockage cuts off your home’s essential water supply, disrupting daily life in your kitchen and bathroom until the problem is resolved.
Best Ways to Prevent Frozen Plumbing
A little bit of preparation can save you from a huge headache when the climate shifts and the temperature plummets. Follow these tips from our expert plumbers in Baltimore, MD, to protect your home’s plumbing from freezing temperatures.
Insulate Pipes Properly
Pipe insulation is your strongest defense against freezing. Foam sleeves or wraps are particularly helpful for maintaining heat inside water lines in the basement, garage, or attic. Even short stretches of exposed pipe near a valve or tap can benefit from insulation.
Maintain Indoor Heating
Maintaining consistent indoor heat is vital for preventing frozen plumbing, which means keeping your thermostat at the same temperature during both day and night. Fluctuating indoor climates create conditions where pipes cool quickly and become susceptible to ice buildup. For areas that tend to run colder, such as a bathroom, laundry room, or basement, using a space heater can protect pipes and help maintain an even climate across the home.
Seal Drafts & Leaks
Drafts entering through windows, doors, or vents may seem minor, but they can drop the temperature enough to put pressure on your plumbing. Adding caulk or insulation around spots where pipes are exposed helps stop cold air from settling in, especially in areas like behind cabinets, under sinks, or along basement walls.
Drip Faucets During Freezes
Allowing your faucets to drip slowly during freezing weather helps keep water moving, which makes it harder for ice to settle inside the line. That steady movement also eases pressure that builds when temperatures drop. By giving water an outlet through the tap, you create a simple safeguard that helps protect your pipes from the strain that leads to cracks or bursts.
What to Do if Your Pipes or Faucets Begin to Freeze
If you notice weak flow or no water at the tap during the winter season, your pipes might be starting to freeze. Acting quickly can save you from a burst. Take these steps right away:
- Turn Off the Valve: Shut off the main water supply to reduce pressure in the pipes.
- Apply Gentle Heat: Use a hair dryer, heating pad, or space heater to thaw a frozen section of pipe. Avoid open flames, which can cause damage.
- Open Faucets: Turn the tap on to let water flow as the ice melts and pressure drops.
- Warm the Area: Raise the thermostat or add insulation in the garage, attic, or basement to help restore normal temperature.
- Call a Plumber: If you cannot find or safely thaw the frozen section, contact a plumber right away to prevent water damage.
Check out more information about what to do if you have frozen pipes!
Don’t Wait for a Burst — Call Saffer Plumbing Today!
A frozen pipe can cause chaos, but with a little foresight, you can get through the winter without a problem. If you need assistance or suspect a frozen pipe, call a professional plumber immediately. Contact Saffer Plumbing to keep your home safe and your water flowing all season long.